After the dust settled, Lila found herself in a rare moment of quiet. The city lights twinkled below the penthouse, casting reflections across the polished floors. The technician who had become her steadfast ally appeared quietly behind her, offering a small, genuine smile.
"You did more than survive," he said softly. "You led, protected, and proved that you're more than just a hero in name."
Lila felt warmth spread through her chest. She had been so focused on surviving, on mastering Liora's skills, that she hadn't allowed herself to recognize the people who had supported her. In that moment, she realized that the connections she had built were as vital as the victories she had earned.
They talked for hours, sharing thoughts and fears, laughing over small victories, and acknowledging the heavy burdens they both carried. For the first time, Lila allowed herself to feel more than just responsibility—she felt genuine trust, companionship, and perhaps even the spark of something deeper.
This connection reminded her that living as a hero wasn't about isolation. It was about collaboration, empathy, and the courage to let others in—even when the world demanded perfection. And for the first time, Lila felt fully grounded in her new identity, capable of both greatness and genuine human connection.